THE STRUCTURE
The AIGE Inception and Implementation meeting was attended by over 450 participants and addressed four cross cutting thematic areas advocating the imperative need for integrated, holistic, innovative and transformative policies, strategies and practices to support a green. Clean and sustainable ASEAN
The Inaugural Keynote Address by H.E U Myint Swe, Vice President, is in Annex 1; the Message by H.E Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, in Annex 2 , delivered by H.E U Ohn Win Union Minister for Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation, Republic of the Union of Myanmar; the Final Programme and the presentations, are uploaded in the
website < www.geggmyanmar.org >
Erik Solheim, UN Environment Executive Director and UN Under Secretary General , gave the Special Address

Capacity Building, Training, Education, Research for Green Economy and Disaster Risks Reduction and Recovery Chaired by H.E Ambassador Dr.Luan Thyu Duong, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the Republic of the Union of Myanmar

The Session on Presentation and Discussion on Draft Summary Highlights Report Was Chaired by H.E Ambassador Eduardo JR Kapounana, Ambassador of the Philippines to the Republic of Union of Myanmar , Co-Chair E. Vuthy Deputy Secretary General , General Secretariat for National Council for Sustainable Development, Cambodia

The Way Forward Session was Chaired by H.E Dr U Set Aung Deputy Minister for Planning and finance and the Principal Discussant was H.E Ambassador Ong Keng Yong, Executive Deputy Chairman; Director, Institute of Defense and Strategic Studies, S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; Former ASEAN Secretary General.

The Final Closing Key Note Address was given by H.E. Dr . Myo Thein Gyi,, Union Minister for Education, Myanmar.

Sufficiency Economy Principle: Knowledge/Traditional Wisdom Base Emphasis on moderation, reason and immunity against rapid changes rather than the profit motive
Using existing resources as much as possible, but depends on self-reliance rather than self-sufficiency
Does not cover the whole economy
Does not contradict with competitive economy, but can be complementary
Both economies require knowledge as basis

Sparks from the Spirit (2018) From Science to Innovation, Development and Sustainability.…creates an understanding of science and its role in innovation and sustainable development and points out unfilled gaps in human development.

prof. Datuk Dr. Raduan Che Rose “Malaysia Towards a Green Econom

Malaysia’s Commitment to UN & other Declarations

Policies Related to Green Growth

The Green Technology Master Plan (GTMP) aims to boost growth of Malaysia’s green technology sector, with targeted revenue of RM180 billion, while creating more than 200,000 green jobs by 2030.

It is clear that biodiversity provides significant benefits to society and the economy, and is critical to the achievement of the SDGs, but that it remains under threat – the cost of doing nothing to protect biodiversity is too extreme.

It is vital to identify mutual benefits and opportunities for building shared value from natural resource management and biodiversity conservation, and it is necessary to take an integrated, systems approach to achieve this.

An integrated, systems approach is necessary to provide robust decision-support tools, including for prioritisation and to help determine choices where trade-offs are necessary.

Comprehensive valuations of ecosystem services will enable informed, upstream decision-making on investment and development priorities and strategies, allowing sustainable choices and avoiding the need for costly mitigation measures.

Integrated approaches allow for smarter approaches to solutions by bringing different perspectives and experiences.

Improved understandings of the role of supply chains will also support improved decision-making – to support the demand-driven development of green economic activities, and to overcome barriers to green investments.Recommended actions for AIGE

Research, pilot and promote innovative approaches to:

Ecosystem service valuation

Integrated land and seascape planning

Participatory frameworks for incorporating the value and role of ecosystem services in decision-making

Strengthening supply chains to support green production and investment.

Detailed notes from presenters
Huub Buise – Chair

Sets scene that there is a clear need for new ways of operating to ensure sustainability

Building flexible product options. For example, both GHGs (CO2 and CH4) can be converted to transportation fuels like renewable methanol that can be further converted to diesel substitute (dimethyl ether) or gasoline.

The constraint to the fugitive gas utilization is to develop economical modular units since the feedstock is small.

The utilization of fugitive gases would be a model for future megacities where most waste will be generated.
This approach could accommodate both the expected increased standard-of-living as well as population increase to 9 billion by 2050.
Dr. Scott Turn
1. When dealing with biomass related energy issues, there is a need to treat the whole value chain from biomass resource, collection logistics, conversion to targeted bioproduct, distribution of the bioproduct through to the end user and their “consumption of the bioproduct”.
2. Emphasize doing more with less: characterize efficiencies at all points along the value chain and then target those that can be improved with highest impacts.
3. Consider conducting technology assessments to support development of clean energy systems with the local conditions as a major criteria, i.e. to identify appropriate technologies.

Engr. Col. Thoung Win ( Retd. )
(1) AIGE Establishment in Myanmar is great opportunity for Myanmar and ASEAN’s strategic Choice.
(2) It can be a practical and life size laboratory for the Formulation, Implementation, Testing and PDCA Circle of GEGG principles.
(3) Almost all of the GEGG activities can be put into practice and they shall become success stories or show case Business Models.
(4) Almost all Renewable and New Energy and Energy Efficiency and Conservation Technologies can be applied and utilized and Investments and collaboration with International organization and companies can be commercially implemented.
(5) The “Late Comer’s Advantage” of Myanmar is true and it can be proved in putting GEGG principles into work. Myanmar can leapfrog for example using Electric Vehicles and electricity for Road Transportation (Cars, Trucks Trains and locomotives) by making the electricity generation sufficient using the different potential resources of Energy in Myanmar. (Solar, Wind, Hydro, Biomass, Gas, (Natural and Bio)).
(6) ASEAN vision 2020 – 6 Areas of cooperation, except coal and clean coal Technology, other 5 areas are directly under the scope of GEGG and AIGE. These are very broad, diversified, opportunistic and challenging Regional Business Cooperation.
(7) Efficient Resource Management and Mobilization including Human Capital Resource Mobilization can be a Fore Front Activity of AIGE, GEGG and relevant Ministries of The Government of the Union of Myanmar.

Convening a regular scientific conference to inform the deliberations on relevant themes of policy interest.

Creating a platform for scientific dialogues between science community and policy makers.

UN Cooperating with AIGE in supporting ASEAN Low Carbon Transition

Using UN’s wealth of expertise and experience in supporting science based assessments and promoting their application for environmental policy and decision making in identify and developing relevant assessement to support the transition

Work towards a platform for enhancing policy dialogue on environment and climate change – bringing together science community and policy makers

Sharing best practices, knowledge and experiences and enhancing capacities on mainstreaming environment and climate change issues

Using UN’s wealth of experience and expertise in strengthening the implementation of individual MEAs central to ASPEN strategic priority areas.

Joint programme on building capacity

Session 4 Protecting and improving Environmental Health,
Key Summaries.
The Key messages from Chulabhorn Research Institute, Dr. Jutamaad are as follows
Protecting and improving environmental health through research and capacity building
1. For countries to effectively cope with environmental health problems, qualified and trained personnel in environmental health and toxicology is crucial and in need.
2. Identifying environmental risk factors and impacts of exposure through research in environmental health toxicology and epidemiology, then initiate preventive measures for the control and reduction of exposure and hence these risks through regulation, information dissemination, education and training of personnel at various level
3. Much research is needed to gain better understanding the health risks and impacts of exposure to chemicals and infectious agents. To define the inter linkages, such that the policy decision and interventions can be taken to control and ultimately reduce the global burden of disease attributed to them, thereby improving the quality of life for all.
4. Human health is an integrated part of everyone’s standard of living. Affecting human health affects the present and future workforce which will in turn, affect sustainable development.
The Key messages from WHO Country Office for Myanmar, Dr. Badri are as follows
1. AIGE in coordination with WHO and other stakeholders should develop the matrix or the country activity mapping exercise for what has happen in line with the SDGs (targets vs achievements). This would enable Environment and Health stakeholders to support country to achieve the SDGs.
2. Minimum set of indicators should be selected out of many that are listed for each SDGs to track the progress in this areas.
3. “No one should be left behind” as this is clear that SDGs are achieved with inter-sectoral (multi-sectoral) collaboration and AIGE can play an advocacy role.
The Key messages from UN Environment Mr. Masato Motoki are as follows
1. The priority areas to be identified by ASEAN Institute for Green Economy in consultation with member states. The consultation process will review options for strengthening the enabling regulatory and policy environment. Asia Pacific Regional Forum on Health and Environment and its Thematic Working Groups can be an opportunity to find the way to work together with AIGE, Ministry of Environment and Ministry of Health.
2. In order to provide ASEAN decision makers, practitioners and young professionals from government and business with a practical introduction to the green economy concept such as circular economy, it is proposed that the ASEAN Institute for Green Economy and the UN Environment develop an interactive Green Economy programme for ASEAN countries.
3. Promoting policy interventions, investments, study to fill missing the data on the environment and health impacts and institutional capacity-building for sound management of chemicals and waste throughout their life-cycle are strongly encouraged.
4. Encouraging sustainable growth and improving the standard of life by promoting sustainable consumption and urban infrastructure design that enables green living/ lifecycle are high priorities. Also, strengthening efforts in the areas of education, training, public awareness, public participation, public access to information and cooperation on linkages between health and environment through public health campaigns would be necessary.

The Key messages from Global Health Asia, Dr. Nicole De Paula are as follows
1.The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, featuring 17 SDGs, will only be effectively implemented if a holistic vision of development is practiced.
2.We are allowing the natural world to disappear without fully understanding what will be lost and how we are being affected. We are not doing a good job informing people in a way that they feel empowered to act. Certainly, not at the pace needed! Be a knowledge broker!
3.Damaging the planet damages human health—food security, infectious diseases, poverty trap-stress, AMR, occupational hazards are relevant examples.
4. To address problems at the interface of health and the environment, we must overcome the fragmentation within disciplines and be inclusive. Planetary health provides a vision to accomplish this endeavor.
5. Improvement in health requires a secure foundation in multiple fronts, as indicated by the SDGs—We need to foster transdisciplinarity and further integrate social scientists when designing health public policies that affect the environment.

The Key messages from National Poison Control Centre, Department of Medical Research, Dr. Khin Phyu Phyu are as follows

Research should be linked to collaboration.

Research findings have to be followed by appropriate action

That action has to be empowered by technologies

Capacity building for heavy metal poisoning research related to environment and human e.g heavy metal poisoning research on Mercury, Lead, Cadmium and Arsenic is needed.

Multi sectorial activity is necessary to implement the management of environmental issues.

In 1800, only 3% of the world’s populations lived in cities – today over 50% of humanity call urban areas home. Rapid urbanization combined with growing socioeconomic inequality are profound forces driving political and economic change.

In our globalized, interconnected world, a number of megatrends are challenging the very fabric of our existence like never before. These are: Population Boom, Rapid Urbanization, Climate Change, Global Interconnectedness, Wealth Inequality and Aging Societies.

It could be said that we are living in “exponential times” paced by extraordinarily fast alterations in human health, climate, biodiversity, ecosystems, demographics, transportation, information and communications, and disruptive game-changing technologies such as machine learning and artificial intelligence.
At the same time, the pace of adoption of new technologies is also accelerating.

The Artificial Technology (AI) transformation is coming sooner than most people think, and we must become prepared for the enormous potential it has to alter our world. It will disrupt all aspects of our lives.

Our planet is getting more crowded and more urbanized by the day. In fact, in the last 200 years the human population increased from 1 billion to about 7.5 billion people.

Overall, the so-called ‘Six Ds’ of digitization, deception, disruption, demonetization, dematerialization, and democratization describe a road map of rapid development that always seen enormous upheaval and also opportunity.

Opportunities exist from the Global Challenges.

Question: How can we best educate our students in the 21st Century age of Exponential Disruption?

Higher Education must change, as today’s approaches are not aligned to the world taking shape tomorrow. Existing education models are based on the 20th Century models to support the Industrial Revolution. Education must change, but it is usually one of the last to change.

We must equip students with the tools to be capable of adapting to a future marked by exponential, disruptive change – to face a future of constant change and uncertainty.

Lifelong learning is critical. The ‘Four-Cs’ of The Partnership for 21st Century Learning – critical thinking, communication, creativity and collaboration – are skills that are essential for lifelong learning in the 21st century.

Moreover, since the megatrends are global, we are called to build a global ecosystem of green higher education institutions (HEIs) and promoting globally responsible citizenry though green capacity building, green training, green education, and green research, all the while striving for global cooperation and global solutions.

Earth is telling us that it has reached its breaking point, and it is up to us to respond. Green Education can support the Green Economy.

Green Principles can and should be built into Green Education

Green R&D must cut across borders and boundaries.

Now is the time that universities can play a key role to push forward a necessary paradigm change for green economy. AIT can play a role, owing to its academic, research, training and outreach programs which cut across countries and disciplines. AIT positions itself as a ‘Global Research Institute for the Sustainable Future of Mankind.’

AIT is a uniquely political neutral regional platform to tackle global issues that transcend borders and boundaries like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

AIT aims to graduate leaders in disciplines that will contribute directly to the coming green economy, by strengthen countries’ higher education institutions, research profiles and national organizations.

AIT produces Globally Responsible Citizens who are knowledgeable, skilled and eager to contribute to sustainable, green national economic growth; who take local action with global perspectives; who appreciate diversity in cultures and religions; who act in environmentally responsible ways; who appreciate research for mankind; and who believe in interdisciplinary teamwork.

AIT’s emphasis is on cultivating in our students what we call the ‘5-Is’, defined by: interdisciplinary competence, industrial relevance, ICT literacy, innovative mindset and international perspective.

ASEAN Higher Education networking is crucial to success. AIT is the hub for the Greater Mekong Sub-region Academic Research Networks (GMSARN) and is a node in ASEAN for the global

Climate Technology Center and Network (CTCN).
AIT Proposal (Recommendation)
The Asian Institute of Technology proposes the formation of the ASEAN Green Research and Environmental Education Network (AGREEN) – a network of universities in ASEAN for green capacity building, training, education and research.
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Increase emphasis on entrepreneurship, human capital development and learning.

Cautioned against a ‘One Size Fits All’ approach.

Stressed a need to prioritize actions.

Offered a Practical Framework of guiding principles to take stock of SMEs’ Green Growth (as a way to prioritize actions). The framework involves an assessment of: Willing / Unwilling and Able / Unable. Policy makers can use the analysis to inform policy development, such as incentives.
Recommendation(s)
(1) AIGE focus on research to help promote ASEAN’s Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), as the ASEAN Secretariat describes ASEAN businesses as primarily “Micro” SMEs or MSMEs. They are critical to: Job creation, contribution to regional GDP and are a factor in bringing about regional integration. SMEs are responsible for between 30-53% of GDP in members’ countries.
(2) Introduce logical frameworks for taking stock of SMEs performance on green growth to inform policy prescriptions.
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Overall theme of his talk was on need for Disaster Recovery Capacity Building

ASEAN faces a high degree of exposure to a wide range of natural disasters such as typhoons, cyclones, earthquakes, floods, tsunamis etc. The region faces US$ 4.4 Bil. in losses in ASEAN every year from disasters

Rapid urbanization, changes in economic structure and climate change are increasing the frequency and scale of disasters

Regional cooperation is needed

Myanmar is the co-chair of ASEAN’s Disaster Management Recovery Working Group.

ASEAN Disaster Recovery Reference Guide (2016) is a key manual for the region. It outlines five key components (1) Policy on Training For Recovery (2) Establish an Institutional Framework for Recovery (3) Post-Disaster Assessment (4) Resource Mobilization and Financial Management for Recovery and (5) Coordination and Communication for Recovery.

Preferred the term “Capacity ‘Development’ for Disaster Recovery” rather than Capacity Building

Stressed the importance of preparedness and capacity for Recovery and Reconstruction

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Prof. Chao Zhang, Sustainability Science and Public Policy, School of Economics and Management, Sustainable Development & New Type Urbanization Think Tank, Tongji University, China
Title of Presentation was: “Governing the food-energy-water nexus to achieve SDGs”

To achieve any target in Green Growth, humans need to cooperate.

“Tong Ji” translated from Chinese means “people in the same boat should help each other”. It could be a symbol for AIGE.

He explained the highly ranked disciplines at Tongji University and some of the Centres of Excellence that could provide intellectual support to the Green Economy / AIGE.

The food-energy-water nexus has been well studied – but he proposed to frame it as “a Nexus perspective for sustainability.”

He emphasized how within this nexus “everything is connected to everything else”, i.e., if one lacks energy you may have no water and therefore no food. However, these linkages are critical to human existence.

He proposed a “New Angle to look at the SDGs”: One goal and its indicators may, in fact, be contingent on another goal that is not based in any numerical, sequential order. He suggested that this re-thinking of SDGs could lead to an assessment of tradeoffs.

He explained some of the experience of China’s ‘Electricity-Water-Nexus’

-Thermal power provide 70% of China’s power and will be the dominant source of energy for the next 2-3 decades

-Renewables are booming in China

Challenges to the success of the New Nexus are:

(1) Increasing Efficiency: includes strengthening standards for water, energy and using alternative water sources

(2) Reducing Tradeoffs: He raised the example of how the air cooling diffusion of 1 technology across China led to a reduction of CO2 emissions that was approximately 1/3 of the entire CO2

emissions output of Myanmar.

(3) Building Synergies: Lifecycle in water and alternative energy.
There are always tradeoffs inherent in the “New Nexus.”
Recommendation on Way Forward
Suggested a Nexus of “3 Is” for AIGE: (1) Nexus of Intelligences (2) Nexus of Institutions and (3) Nexus of Incentives (To promote ecological growth, social development, carbon mitigation, water conservation, increased biodiversity.)
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Called on the AIGE to “go down to the people” in all forms of dialogue / policy / and communication concerning Green Growth. She said that unless the people at the grassroots are engaged it would fail.

Stressed the need to explain to people the policies and technologies in Green Economy. Raising awareness is a strong need, in this context.

It is vital to empower leaders at local levels with public information campaigns that grassroots people can understand – as many would not understand the concepts of things such as “Carbon Footprint”, etc.

Mentioned the “Shared Values, Common Destiny” – ASEAN-India Summit 2018 as an example of the need for “Productive Partnerships”.

She explained the enormous importance of Earth Day 2020 and the five global campaigns.

Stressed that the Green Economy would lead to enormous windfalls in new employment and economic opportunity.

Suggested a shift to introduce Green Economy into universities’ curricula

Earth Day Network will mobilize upcoming global campaigns with the following themes – (2018) End Plastic Pollution, in cooperation with Blue Economy; (2019) Endangered Species

Action / Recommendation:
Recommended that AIGE add — (2018) End Plastic Pollution, in cooperation with Blue Economy and (2019) Endangered Species (Protecting species from Extinction) – into the Work Plan.

CHAIR – H.E. Ambassador Dr. Luan Thuy Duong, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the republic of the Union of Myanmar
H.E. Ambassador Dr. Luan Thuy Duong opened the Discussion by making the point that Education and Capacity Building Awareness are central to the success the initiative. She concluded by saying that the session was a wonderful discussion and that the outcomes could be submitted to ASEAN governments.

The ambassador made some global comments in her concluding / synthesis remarks:

(1) Discussions so far have focused on ‘Macro-terms’, but more discussion is needed on ‘Micro-terms’, like: Green Food, Green Water, and others.
(2) ASEAN already has an existing framework on sustainable development. Networks of think tanks and scholars within the region are creating linkages for cooperation. However, there needs to be reflection on how national development strategies of particular countries impact the region, at large. She cited the example of hydropower development in China on the Mekong River, which runs its course through five ASEAN countries. While cooperation within the region necessary, she said cooperation from partners of ASEAN is also important.
(3) Technology discussions for Green Economy are indeed necessary. What is still missing is discussion on: Management Practice and Policy Cooperation.
(4) Suggested to link all suggestions arising from the session to the already existing Three (3) Pillars of ASEAN.
(5) Promote Green Growth technology through AIGE and existing frameworks. Avoid duplication.
(6) Create a common data platform that can aggregate cross-sectoral best practices
(7) Green Growth awareness raising is cost-effective way to achieve success. Aim to introduce curriculum in schools, develop education tools and improve literacy.
(7) Focus on communication at ASEAN level to incorporate Green Economy into the regional economy.
Comments and Suggestions from Participants

Invasive Species in Lakes
In reply to the presentation by Ms. Karun Singh, Regional Director, Earth Day Network South Asia, one participant noted that fresh water invasive species of fish and snail are damaging native fish stocks and spreading diseases in lakes in Myanmar.
Harmonious, Sustainable Development for ASEAN the Next Fifteen Years
∙ Applauding the presentation of Prof. Worsak Kanok-Nukulchai, President, Asian Institute of Technology, Bangkok, Thailand — who emphasized ‘Research for the Sustainable Future of Mankind – one participant recommended adding ‘harmony’ into the framework, recognizing the diversity of existing cultures and religions in ASEAN. He suggested Prof. Worsak’s presentation could be a framework for a green growth in the region that also emphasizes harmony.

Prof. Worsak replied, saying not to discount the importance of technology. Emerging technology can work hand-in-hand with the Green Economy.

Other suggestions / recommendations

Do not focus only on new work for the AIGE. Develop a program that is complimentary to existing ASEAN frameworks.

Green Economy is more than the environment. It is impossible to have zero impact. The key is cost-benefit analysis at what point we can accept a certain degree of impact as a trade- off for other benefits. Nexus of ‘Incentives” is key.

AIGE is an ASEAN Charter Annrx 2 / Track 2 Entity, endorsed by ASEAN Heads of States and Governments at the 25th ASEAN SUMMIT.

Prescribed in the AIGE Terms of Reference AIGE that was reviewed and approved by AMS , the AIGE will be located in Yangon, Myanmar, at the GEGG Center of Excellence for Greening and the AIGE shall be established with scientific and technical personality

All participants at this Meeting have made important contributions and express willingness to collaborate in the establishment of a strong, innovative and forward-thinking and looking AIGE.

This meeting provided guidance for the preparation of a robust and forward-looking PLATFORM for a multi-year AIGE Collaborative Work Programme, building upon the core PRINCIPLES that emerged from the Meeting

The work plans envisaged
Phase 1: Provisional report of the meeting (the statements, presentations, preliminary collaborative work program framework) will be drafted and disseminated by end of Feb 2018.
Phase 2: Elaborating the Collaborative Work Programme from March 2018 onwards:

Will calibrate with resources mobilized_ in-kind , funds ,cost sharing, etc and potential prospects made at this Meeting , Meeting high priority needs of ASEAN Member States

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY are developing very fast, and those advancements should be utilized for the sustainable development, and green development.

SOCIAL SCIENCES are also noted as important for developing the green economy.

MANAGEMENT practices are being developed all over the world for green economy and sustainable development, and we could work together and develop together those practices.

We must have CRITICAL THINKING and also the SYSTEMS APPROACH for making necessary changes from traditional norms to green economy and green development.

NETWORKING is an essential component to bring in all the stake-holders in the process of green economy development.

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are key stakeholders in the economy, and they must be educated the green and clean practices, and must be supported for their contribution to the green economy development.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): In September 2015, the global community agreed the Sustainable Development Goals, setting out new development priorities for all countries, post-2015. The 17 new goals have been designed to integrate global ambitions on tackling poverty, reducing inequality, combating climate change, and protecting ecosystems including oceans, forests and biodiversity. It is an ambitious and universal agenda. AIGE will incorporate the SDGs in its goals and missions.

Human Resource development and capacity building is basic for the sustainable development.

AIGE will work closely with all the stake-holders in the current ongoing education reform processes of ASEAN countries to promote green, clean and sustainable development an imperative priority in the education contexts.
U Hla Maung Thein, Director General. Environmental Conservation Department under Ministry of Environment Conservation and Forestry, Government of Myanmar
Provided perspective of Green Economy for Sustainable Development:

Integrated approach for a clean environment with healthy and functioning ecosystem for the inclusive and well-being of the people of Myanmar

National Green Economy Policy Strategic Framework is central to the Comprehensive Sustainable Development Goals

H.E Ambassador Eduardo JR Kapounana, Chair of the Session, made a remark that
Planning is essential. He suggested asking three questions in planning process:
– Where are we now?
– Where are we going?
– How to get there?
Mr. Ky-Anh Nguyen, Director, Sustainable Development Directorate, ASEAN Socio-cultural CommunityDepartment, ASEAN Secretariat recap the important points and key elements of discussions, and added a some suggestions;

Public Private Partnership (PPP) is important

Addressing the ASEAN’s common challenges together

Multi-stakeholders participations
Dr. Devinder Mahajan, Institute Director, Institute of Gas Innovation and Technology (I-GIT), Advanced Energy Research and Technology Center (AERTC) made a comment on the Chairman’s suggestion of three questions on planning that “how to get there is important, and so that defining priority areas and what available technologies could solve those areas may help for successful implementation of AIGE”.
Dr. Nay Htun requested Dr. Mahanjan if he could prepare a paper, particularly in the cross-cutting theme of Wastes as a Resource and provide this to the GEGG/ AIGE.
Another participant made the following comments:

4th Question: When are we going to be there? (Timing/ schedule)

Timing is very important.

Myanmar has a very good potential to be a role model of Green Economy

Case Studies would be helpful
Mr. Ky-Anh Nguyen mentioned that-

As AIGE is an ASEAN leaders’ endorsed Institution, so have to follow the ASEAN principles, and regulations, and consultation process with ASEAN secretariat should be carried out e.g.for those TOR and organization structure.

Session 7. The Way Forward
Was Chaired by H.E Dr U Set Aung Deputy Minister for Planning and finance and the Principal Discussant was H.E Ambassador Ong Keng Yong, Executive Deputy Chairman; Director, Institute of Defense and Strategic Studies, S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; Former ASEAN Secretary General.

H.E Dr. U Set Aung
There is an imperative need to mainstream green economy concepts, strategies, policies and practices into national development plans. The expanding opportunities for green jobs are evident in an increasing number of countries. Solar and wind renewable energy are some of the fastest growing sectors.
The presentations and discussions during the past two days have underscored the economic, social, health and ecological benefits. Important building blocks and directions have been recommended. These would need to be prioritize, taking into account the prevailing and emerging situations. Business as usual and pollute now and clean up later are not options. Building upon the last two days, he looked forward to sharpen and speed up the Way Forward toward a green clean and sustainable ASEAN

H.E Ambassador Ong Keng Yong remarked

The AIGE is an ASEAN leaders’ endorsed project, so need to follow the requirements in accordance with the ASEAN organization, but, those procedures should not be restricting the process and development of AIGE institution.

With the TOR reviewed and approved by ASEAN Member States, it should not take too long to start AIGE and the implementation of its mentioned works.

There are ASEAN institutions, process and projects in those areas mentioned in AIGE’s scope. AIGE would need to collaborate with these institutions on projects and programmes. Green economy is fast emerging and is gaining interest regionally and internationally. .An integrated approach is imperative for green economy and sustainable development.

Additional resources need to be mobilized soonest.

Should start Public awareness and public education programs, in particular for industry and the private sector who are concerned with jobs loss with transition towards green economy.

Advised Public Affairs of ASEAN Secretariat to be involved expeditiously for outreach and awareness.

There is no Annex 1 organization

As per ASEAN charter, Annex 2 means ASEAN affiliated body.

When drawing ASEAN Charter in 2005-06-07, over 80 organizations became Annex 2 organizations.

AIGE as Annex 2 is not accurate, because these is a question “where is your physical presence in any other countries in ASEAN apart from Myanmar, as it needs to?”

For example, Council for Security Cooperation in the Asia Pacific (CSCAP) was the first Track 2 body.

Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) located in Jakarta, funded by ASEAN member states and Japan, is another example.

Calling AIGE as Annex 2 is not a good idea, but calling it as Track 2 Body is more appropriate. This gives it greater flexibility to engage with more stake-holders, faster implementation of projects and programmes, and with less procedures and process.

It is worthwhile to note that here are a few other institutions working on same direction, such as ACBD (ASEAN Center for Bio-diversity) and ACE (ASEAN Center for Energy).

AIGE has the opportunity to develop into an institution that will respond with alacrity , efficiency and effectiveness to respond to the fast emerging challenges and opportunities for a green, clean and sustainable ASEAN

UNEP representative made a comment that communication and collaboration among the ministries of the governments and international organizations are important, and he explained how UNEP is closely working with World Health Organization (WHO), and Ministry of Environmental Conservation and Forestry, and Ministry of Health in Myanmar.

E Vuthy, Deputy Secretary General , National Council for Sustainable Development, Cambodia reiterated that capacity building and building awareness is very important, and also mentioned again that it cannot go further if there is no human resource and suggested to focus on some quick wins.

Dr. Nay Htun, GEGG. Thanked the Chairs, Ambassador Ong, Speakers and the Discussants for their extensive and valuable advice as well as freely sharing their vast knowledge. These will be incorporated and reflected in the work plan of AIGE.

He highlighted two initiatives that are well advanced:
– Implementation of a Dedicated Workshop on Green Fruits , a quick and high impact initiative that would bring economic, social, health and ecological benefits to farmers , as well as to consumers.
– Discussions are underway for the establishment of an Unconventional Resource Facility to support AIGE collaborative programmes and projects

Session 8. Closing
H.E. Dr. Myo Thein Gyi, Union Minister for Education, Myanmar, Closing Session Keynote highlighted and emphasized the critically important role of education, training and research.
He took note of the excellent presentations and recommendations and in particular the Session on Education, Training and Research to support green, clean and sustainable ASEAN
The AIGE, endorsed by ASEAN Heads of State and Government, provides a very good process and platform to foster collaboration among ASEAN Member States and beyond. Global Challenges and Opportunities are more effectively addressed collaborative.
He renewed and extended the full cooperation and support of the Ministry of Education to the AIGE that is located in the premises of the GEGG (no for profit) Center of Excellence, situated in the Ministry of Education Department of Research and Innovation, Yangon.
The proximity, common goals and interest for education, training, research enhance and facilitate cooperation between the Ministry of Education, GEGG and AIGE

Union Ministers Executive Director of United Nations Environment, Mr. Erik Solheim Ambassadors of ASEAN Member States, Ambassadors of Development Partners Countries Representatives from the Committee of Natural Resources and Environment of Pyi Thu Hluttaw and Amyotha Hluttaw Representatives from UN Agencies Delegates from ASEAN Member States Representatives from Green Economy Green Growth (GEGG) Association Myanmar Excellences’, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Good morning,

1. At the very outset, it is my great pleasure and honor to deliver an opening speech at this inception and implementation on meeting on ASEAN Institute of Green Economy. Taking this privilege, on behalf of the Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar and on my own behalf, I would like to extend a warm welcome to all of you and my gratitude for your significant presence here which reflects your deep appreciation on our regional cooperation and pride to host this significant event.
2. ASEAN with a population of over 630 million is one of the world’s largest economies and of the most dynamic and fastest growing region. Interregional trade is expected to increase significantly and ASEAN is well situated and poised to be a major hub for global trade. Consequently, demand for natural resources will increase in tandem.
3. The majority of ASEAN population still depends on the natural resources for their livelihood. It is, therefore, vitally important that these resources are managed and used in a sustainable manner. However, the region has experienced severe environmental challenges including droughts, natural disasters, loss of biodiversity and depletion of natural resources and climate change as well as the devastation of historical and cultural resources due to increase of population, poverty and climate change impacts among our ASEAN countries.
4. Realizing that economic development cannot be sustained without protecting the environment, ASEAN countries have committed themselves to protect and promote the environment. With this concept in mind, “A clean and green ASEAN with fully established mechanism for sustainable development by 2020” is set as our common goal.
5. With inspired spirit to overcome regional and global environmental problems, collaborative efforts are also crucial at the regional and national level in order to realize the goal of achieving green and clean environment in the entire region. It is our conviction that environmental issues are best tackled collectively, in cooperation with our AMS countries and international organizations.
6. In this regards, AIGE is an innovative foundation to share information and experiences, ways and means and promote dialogue among member countries and Development Partners towards the vision of clean and green environment of our ASEAN region.
Excellences’, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
7. It is my honor to be here today to see the launching of this event at such an important time of Myanmar’s development as well as our entire ASEAN community. More than ever do we need research, knowledge sharing and collaboration to support new policy solutions and ideas that can drive a green economy in ASEAN countries.
8. As of the Terms of Reference of the AIGE which was approved in September 2017, I do believe that the institute will work to “enhance awareness of programs on green technologies and management practices and assist ASEAN Member States through joint research, education and training.”
9. While ASEAN continues to promote the sustainable economic growth agenda, I believe AIGE can support ASEAN countries in identifying opportunities and solutions that can help us address environmental, climate and economic issues to ensure that our
natural wealth is protected and that current as well as future generations can continue to enjoy the many opportunities that ASEAN countries provide.
Excellences’, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
10. Myanmar’s people and economy depend on healthy and functioning ecosystems to provide enough food, clean water, protection against natural disasters, and energy – essential for the survival, wellbeing and socio-economic development of our societies. Therefore, it is critical that we all properly value nature and the essential benefits it provides.
11. We are building an economy that creates jobs, improves human wellbeing and conserves Myanmar’s natural wealth. While our country has suffered from the impact of climate change and environmental degradation, we are laying down new policies and strategies that will change our pathway towards a more sustainable future.
12. In this regard, the development of National Environmental Policy, Strategy and Master Plan, National Climate Change Policy, Strategy and Action Plan, National Waste Management Strategy and Green Economy Policy Framework have been completed in Myanmar. The Green Economy Policy Framework identifies and implements priority areas to be promoted for sustainable and green investments. We need investments that can support our economic development, while improving the wellbeing of our people and protecting our natural wealth.
13. With the aim of environmental mainstreaming in Myanmar, we are incorporating green development and climate change considerations into national, sectoral and local development plans. Moreover, Myanmar is committed to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Paris Agreement.
Excellences’, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
14. I do believe that this three-day Meeting will be a platform and great opportunity to discuss among experts and delegates for building an economy by investments that are low-carbon and based on green technologies in our ASEAN region.
15. In conclusion, I would like to urge all of the participants here today to contribute and collaborate for the establishment of a strong, innovative and forward-thinking AIGE. In doing so, I do expect that AIGE can become the center for shaping a green and sustainable ASEAN community.
16. Thank you for your participation and contribution. I wish this important event great success!

ANNEX 2

Message
H.E Daw Aung San Suu Kyi
State Counsellor and Foreign Minister
Republic of the Union of Myanmar

I am delighted to welcome all of you to the Inception and Implementation Meeting on the ASEAN Institute for Green Economy (AIGE). It is a great honor for Myanmar to host the AIGE and this auspicious meeting with the cooperation of the non-profit Green Economy Green Growth (GEGG) Association.

ASEAN countries have an opportunity to pursue a green economy that supports the well-being of our people and protects ASEAN’s unique natural wealth, home to some of the most biologically diverse areas on this planet– the basis of our long-term survival and prosperity.

Our countries are vulnerable to climate change and we have suffered from many environmental issues brought about due to highly depending on natural resources. Many of our cities and economic activities are concentrated along coastlines, making them vulnerable to natural disasters.

It is clear that we must pursue a different path moving forward. This will enhance our resilience to climate change, resolve environmental challenges, while creating new economic opportunities and jobs. The only way to resolve the challenges happening over the world is through global cooperation.

The commitment to sustainable development and combatting climate change is clear through ASEAN countries’ commitments to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement.

This is in accordance with the outcomes of the historical conference Rio+20 and the document “The Future We Want”, which emphasized that a green economy should contribute to eradicating poverty as well as sustained economic growth, enhancing social inclusion, improving human welfare and creating opportunities for employment and decent work for all, while maintaining the healthy functioning of the Earth’s ecosystems.

By investing in research, new technologies and support development in green economy, ASEAN countries can lead the way in providing opportunities of new jobs for youth and future generations while protecting our natural wealth.

In our ASEAN economic community blueprint 2025, we have laid down a vision of a community that incorporates a sustainable growth agenda that promotes a science-based use of, and support for, green technology and energy.
Our vision is clear, now we must work together to realize a future, where our ASEAN community is strong economically, where people enhance resilience to climate change. Emerging challenges and opportunities require new and innovative institutions, collaborative mechanisms and policy instruments that can support this transformation.

At the 25th ASEAN Summit, held in Naypyidaw, Myanmar in 2014, the ASEAN Institute for Green Economy (AIGE) was endorsed by ASEAN heads of states. This new institute will serve as a center of excellence to promote policies and practices to address green economy and green growth opportunities, with an aim to increase and improve sustainable development, conservation and efficient use of natural resources, and transition to low carbon technologies to address climate change.

During this meeting, participants are encouraged to discuss integrated, holistic, innovative and collaborative policies, strategies and practices, utilizing state of the art technologies and management that could be considered for promoting green economy and green growth. I hope this meeting will provide guidance for the preparation of a robust and forward-looking Platform for a multi-year AIGE Collaborative Work Programme.

Technologies and funds are needed for green economy initiatives while shaping the scheme of poverty alleviation and Countries, President U Thein Sein said at an opening of the 3rd Green Economy Green Growth Forum held at MICC, here, this morning.